Manchester City Rebuffs Interest from PSG and Barcelona in Julian Alvarez
Manchester City has firmly communicated to Julian Alvarez’s representatives that the Argentine striker will not be sold during the current transfer window.
Despite strong interest from European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, City intends to keep Alvarez, as the club views him as integral to their future plans, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Alvarez’s Situation at Manchester City
Alvarez, 24, joined Manchester City from River Plate and has shown remarkable versatility, featuring prominently in attacking midfield roles alongside Phil Foden last season.
His adaptability became crucial as City managed a prolonged absence of Erling Haaland, with Alvarez stepping up to maintain the team’s attacking prowess.
Although Alvarez is reportedly seeking more regular playing time, given his ambition to be a first-choice striker, Manchester City’s current stance highlights their reluctance to let him go.
With Erling Haaland firmly established as City’s main striker, Alvarez’s quest for a consistent starting role in a central attacking position remains challenging.
Interest from PSG and Barcelona
Both PSG and Barcelona have prioritized signing Alvarez this summer:
- PSG: Manager Luis Enrique has sanctioned a move for Alvarez, and talks have been initiated with Manchester City. PSG is looking to strengthen their attacking options, and Alvarez fits their profile as a versatile and dynamic forward.
- Barcelona: The Catalan club’s interest in Alvarez is linked to potential movements involving Robert Lewandowski. If Saudi clubs make a significant offer for Lewandowski, Barcelona might pursue Alvarez as a replacement. However, Barcelona’s ability to meet City’s valuation, especially without a windfall from a Lewandowski transfer, is uncertain.
City’s Stance on the Transfer
Manchester City’s refusal to entertain offers for Alvarez stems from their strategic outlook on squad depth and long-term planning. The club values Alvarez’s contributions and potential, making him a critical asset in their attacking setup. City’s management, aware of Alvarez’s potential, has no plans to sell, regardless of the significant interest from PSG and Barcelona.
Future Implications for Manchester City
If Alvarez were to depart, City would need to find a suitable replacement, potentially prompting them to re-enter the transfer market. However, the club is already active in bolstering their squad, notably targeting reinforcements in the wide-right attacking roles.
Brazilian winger Savio, set to join City from ESTAC Troyes, will be evaluated during the pre-season tour of the United States, adding depth to their attacking options.
Manchester City’s firm stance on retaining Julian Alvarez underscores their commitment to maintaining a strong, versatile squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. Despite interest from major European clubs, City views Alvarez as indispensable to their ambitions, ensuring he remains at the Etihad Stadium for the foreseeable future.
Manchester City Rebuffs Interest from PSG and Barcelona in Julian Alvarez
